Marvel at the accomplishment of Henry Flagler, an oil tycoon whose Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad train made its first journey to Key West on Jan. 12, 1912, literally connecting the previously isolated Florida Keys with the mainland for the first time, forever changing the face of the island chain.

Once the sun is safely tucked away by jugglers, mimes, musicians and street artists, the city moves to a different beat. A night beat. The streets, filled with sidewalk cafes, open-air bars, legendary pubs and world-classrestaurants come alive. Gourmets and gourmands alike treat their palates to island specialties. Drama, musicals and comedyflourish on our stages.

As you enjoy these sights, you'll discover that modern Key West is a warm-hearted place where all are welcome. The city's vibrant Gay and Lesbian Community helped spearhead the island's economic and social revival in the 1980's.

ONE HUMAN FAMILY is the official philosophy of the island community of Key West and Monroe County; a simple motto which serves not only as a shining example of daily life here, but as one that is openly shared with global neighbors throughout the world.

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Key West's African cultural heritage is represented by the vibrant Bahama Village neighborhood, founded in the early 1800s by Africans migrating from the Bahamas, and in historic churches, indigenous food and annual festivals.

Among Key West's most significant African cultural sites is the 1860 African Burial Ground, located on the island's Atlantic Ocean shore beside a Civil War-era fort. It is believed by experts to be America's only African refugee cemetery.

A memorial honoring the buried Africans is being constructed at the site.

New restaurants and stores are popping up in the historic Bahama Village neighborhood, which was settled in the 19th Century by Bahamian immigrants. Hemingway loved coming here to mix with the hard-working locals at boxing matches and arm-wrestling contests.

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In this city of fascinating contrasts, you could easily find yourself wanting to let go of mainland hassles permanently.

Come visit Key West. Like all the Keys, you'll find it's rich in history.